The Importance of SPF

June 21st marks the onset of summer and the longest day of the year in the northern hemisphere. We, in the southern states, may also argue it’s the hottest day of the year, with each passing day getting noticeably hotter. During the summer solstice, the North Pole is tilted about 23.4 degrees toward the sun and the sun’s rays are now felt most intense. Although it can be uncomfortable, most concerning is- the more intense the sun feels, the more your exposure to UV rays. What are UV Rays? Also known as ultraviolet radiation, it is a type of radiation produced by the sun. Why Should I Be Concerned With UV Rays? Sunburn could be the least of your worries when it comes to UV rays. This type of radiation also causes premature aging, eye damage, and plays a key role in the development of skin cancer. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, “between 40 and 50 percent of Americans who live to age 65 will have either basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma at least once. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common form of skin cancer. More than 1 million cases are diagnosed in the U.S. each year.” How Do I Protect Myself? In addition to UV protecting sunglasses, sunscreen offers the best protection. There are two types of sunscreen inorganic and organic. Inorganic chemicals reflect the rays away from your skin, while organic or carbon-based compounds absorb the rays. What Kind Of Sunscreen Should I Use? There’s much debate on what kind of sunscreen is best for your skin and your overall health, but most doctors recommend a “broad-spectrum” UVA and UVB protection with an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) over 30. What If I Never Get A Sunburn? Those of us with a little more melanin in our skin can argue that since we never get burned we must be naturally protected from UV rays. Not true. UV rays damage everyone’s skin. A tan or darkening of one’s skin, regardless of your native color, is a sign of sun damage. Do I Have To Wear Sunscreen Every Day? Yes! unless you live and work underground. Apply sunscreen as part of your morning beauty routine. There are plenty of sunscreens on the market that won’t make you look oily or smudge your makeup. Test a few to see which works best for you. Getting skin cancer is terrible, but maybe you’re still unconcerned. In that case, let me appeal to your vanity- you won’t look so cute in that bikini if your skin is wrinkly and your face looks like it belongs to someone twice your age. Make this summer your best one yet, but remember to wear sunscreen at all times. Protect you and your family from the sun’s harmful rays. Blog post by Kristen Llorca